23/01/2026

From intern to managing director

Fredrik Andersson had barely finished upper secondary school before he joined Haga Plåt in Umeå as an intern. At the start of 2026 he took up the role of managing director – after 18 years with the same company.

‘I made a short detour to work as a carpenter but came back to “Haga” when I realised how good I had had it here,’ Andersson says.

The timing was far from ideal when Andersson was hired on Volvo Trucks’ welding line in Umeå in 2008. That year was marked by major lay-offs in industry and, after only four months, he had to leave. However, the setback became the start of a new career journey.

‘That year I started a two-year apprenticeship as a sheet-metal worker in Haga Plåt’s stainless steel department. After that I took a job as a roofer and, two years later, returned to the stainless department,’ Andersson explains. Over time he was given more and more responsibility in this familiar role.

New perspectives

In 2021 there was a shift in the business when an office-based colleague died in a road accident.

‘We needed to reorganise and I then became project manager for the stainless segment. It was a difficult and emotional time, but also a period of significant development. I gained a completely different perspective on the business and new insight into the company’s finances. Our current Project Manager, Niklas Bergström, was – and still is – an important support. He has meant a great deal to me and to the company,’ Andersson says.

Craftsmanship as a foundation

On 1 January 2026 Andersson had the opportunity to take over as managing director, after serving as operations manager at Haga Plåt for most of 2025. His solid experience as a sheet-metal worker is a major asset.

‘I know the materials well and have the practical knowledge needed to design solutions at the desk. I also know how long different types of jobs take, which is a major advantage when I prepare cost estimates,’ the 38-year-old says.

Haga Plåt turns 100

The year 2026 is special for several reasons. In the same year that Andersson steps into the role of managing director, Haga Plåt also celebrates its centenary.

‘Our history and experience are an important part of our DNA. Many colleagues have worked here all the way to retirement and often beyond. Today we have extensive expertise in sheet-metal projects – including associated service work – as well as waterproofing work. We also have a specialised department for stainless steel, aluminium, steel and Corten steel,’ Andersson explains.

Commissioned by sister companies

In 2021 Haga Plåt was acquired by Fasadgruppen.

‘Joining the Group saved us during a difficult period of internal turbulence and economic downturn. Within Fasadgruppen there is extensive expertise and a wide network of contacts. We have also received new assignments, for example carrying out subcontracted manufacturing for our sister companies,’ Andersson says.

Praises the sense of community

So what has made Andersson stay at the same workplace all these years?

‘The sense of community. Many of us have worked here since leaving school and are truly passionate about what we do. We also spend time together outside work; we ride snowmobiles and go fishing together. The freedom that comes with responsibility has also been important. I made a short detour to work as a carpenter but came back to “Haga” when I realised how good I had had it here,’ Andersson says with a smile.

Andersson sees this sense of community as one of the key strengths to build on in his role as managing director.

‘Everyone should feel that we are one team striving in the same direction. One of our goals is to continue developing our customer relationships. We should always be highly accessible and focus on the opportunities when we talk to our customers.’